Zambia: 48 opposition MPs suspended

By Francis Maingaila LUSAKA, Gambia (AA) - The speaker of the National Assembly has suspended 48 opposition lawmakers, mainly from the opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) for boycotting the official opening session of parliament.On March 17, the lawmakers boycotted President Edgar Lungu's address to the nation on account that they did not recognize his election.The speaker, Patrick Matibini, said the move constituted an abuse of parliamentary privileges. “During this period of suspension which will last for 30 days, the MPs will not be allowed access to the parliament buildings or to attend any parliamentary deliberations in respective committees,” said Matibini.